Webpad and method for using the same

ABSTRACT

A webpad and method for using the same are provided. In one embodiment, information is determined about primary content being played on an audiovisual device using a computer system. Ancillary data is obtained relating to the primary content based on the information about the primary content. The ancillary data is automatically sent to the webpad for access therefrom as the primary content is being played on the audiovisual device.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This is a continuation-in-part of the following applications:U.S. Application entitled, “Webpad and Method for Using the Same”, filedSep. 4, 2001; U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/230,084, filed Sep.5,2000, entitled “Home PC to PDA Data Transfer System”; and U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/233,839, filed Sep. 19, 2000, entitled“Real-time Interactive TV System”, all commonly assigned herewith

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to the field of personaldigital assistants, and more particularly, to a webpad.

BACKGROUND

[0003] The rapid buildup of telecommunications infrastructure combinedwith substantial investment in Internet-based businesses and technologyhas brought Internet connectivity to a large segment of the population.Recent market statistics show that a majority of households in the U.S.own at least one personal computer (PC), and a significant number ofthese PCs are connected to the Internet. Although the majority ofhousehold PCs are connected to the Internet by dialup modem connections,broadband connectivity is being rapidly adopted, and is decreasing inprice as a variety of technologies are introduced and compete in themarketplace. A large majority of households in the U.S. and Europe areviable for at least one or more type of broadband connection, such ascable, DSL, optical networks, fixed wireless, or two-way satellitetransmission.

[0004] The rapid proliferation of low-cost processing power and Internetconnectivity has driven the availability and popularity of digitalcontent. Digitization combined with compression technology producescontent that is small and portable. Consumer enthusiasm for digitalaudio files such as Mb 3-formatted content is a prime example of thetrend toward content digitization, enabling consumers to efficientlyshare audio files that they have digitized from CDs. The creation andtransfer of digital audio is now understood and desired by millions ofconsumers. The MP3 digital audio format is an audio encoding technologythat allows consumers to further compress digital audio files such asthose found on Compact Disks, to much smaller sizes with very littledecrease in sound quality. PC-based MP3 software players have beencreated that provide a convenient graphical user interface and softwaredecoding of MP3 files. Some technology allows users to play MP3 files ontheir PC, using an existing sound card with external speakers. However,to listen to MP3s the user must interface with the PC, using a mouse andkeyboard, and must be nearby the PC sound output equipment.

[0005] Other content mediums are trending toward digitization. Theprocessing and sharing of digital images is expected to increasegeometrically as digital cameras gradually replace conventional filmchemistry. Electronic texts (eBooks) are another example of howdigitization enables more efficient and varied transfer of content. Assystem bandwidth increases, it is only a matter of time before digitalvideo transport is as common as audio is now. Additionally, interactivemultimedia (Flash and Shockwave) will increasingly be made available toend users with PCs.

[0006] A market for home networking technology has emerged, driven bythe need to share an Internet connection between two or more PCs, and toconnect all the PCs to productivity peripherals. There has beeninnovation in local area network (LAN) technology based on end-userdesire for simplicity and ease of installation. The Home PhonelineNetworking Association (HPNA) promotes networking products that turnexisting phone wiring in the home into an Ethernet physical layer.Existing HPNA products provide data-rates equivalent to 10base-TEthernet, approximately 10 Mbps. Networking technology that uses the ACpower wiring in the home to carry data signals has also appeared.Similar to HPNA devices, adapters are required to convert data signalsfrom devices into voltage fluctuations carried on to and off of the ACwires, allowing any AC outlet to become a network interface.

[0007] Wireless radio-frequency (RF) LAN technology has also beenintroduced into the home networking market. Theoretically, wirelesstechnology is the most convenient for the end user to install. Twoprevalent standards for wireless networking are Institute of Electricaland Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11b and HomeRF. Both of thesesystems utilize the unlicensed 2.4 Ghz ISM band as the carrier frequencyfor the transmission of data. Both of these technologies have effectiveranges of approximately 150 feet in a typical household setting. Inaddition to utilizing Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol(TCP/IP) protocols, IEEE 802.11b and HomeRF include additionalencryption and security protocol layers so that the user's devices havecontrolled access to data being sent through the LAN.

[0008] Although there is a significant installed base of PCs with accessto large volumes of digital content via Internet connectivity, the valueof that content is limited when it can only be experienced at the PC.

[0009] Portable digital audio playback devices have been developed thatare significantly smaller than portable CD players because they containno moving parts, only flash memory, a microprocessor for decoding MP3compressed audio content, and batteries. However, the cost per bit ofaudio content with portable digital audio playback devices is still veryhigh because of the high cost of flash memory. The typical portabledigital audio playback device includes enough flash memory to storeabout one CD's worth of digital music. The result is that the user isburdened with having to continually manually change the music files inthe device by plugging the device into the PC and operating a userinterface, if they want to listen to a wide range of music.

[0010] PDAs and other portable handheld computers have achievedwidespread market acceptance due to the valuable data manipulation,access, and storage functionality available in conveniently portableform factors. The innovation of penbased user interfaces in combinationwith various types of character recognition technology has also been afactor in the high adoption rate of PDAs. The Palm Pilot® in particularhas advanced the state of the art of handheld computing by offering asmall, light form factor with an effective character recognitionapplication called Graffiti®. The Palm Pilot® uses the PalmOS® operatingsystem The Palm Pilot® is manufactured by Palm Computing, Inc. Othersmall form factor PDAs are available, such as the iPaq®, manufactured byCompaq Computer, Inc. Casio, Inc. offers the Cassiopeia®.

[0011] What is required is a system that allows a user to access all ofthe digital content and information services without being forced to sitat a PC.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] A webpad and method for using the same are provided. In oneembodiment, information is determined about primary content being playedon an audiovisual device using a computer system. Ancillary data isobtained relating to the primary content based on the information aboutthe primary content. The ancillary data is automatically sent to thewebpad for access therefrom as the primary content is being played onthe audiovisual device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] The present invention will be understood more fully from thedetailed description given below and from the accompanying drawings ofvarious embodiments of the invention, which, however, should not betaken to limit the invention to the specific embodiments, but are forexplanation and understanding only:

[0014]FIG. 1 shows a schematic of one embodiment of the wireless webpadsystem;

[0015]FIG. 2 shows an isometric view of one embodiment of a webpad thatis a PDA attached to a wireless LAN adapter;

[0016]FIG. 3 shows an isometric view of one embodiment of a wireless LANadapter;

[0017]FIG. 4 shows an exploded view of one embodiment of a wireless LANadapter;

[0018]FIG. 5 is a block diagram of one embodiment of the electroniccomponents in the wireless LAN adapter;

[0019]FIG. 6 is a block diagram of one embodiment of the softwarecomponents in the wireless webpad;

[0020]FIG. 7 is a block diagram of one embodiment of an interactive TVsystem using a set-top box;

[0021]FIG. 8 is a block diagram of one embodiment of an interactive TVsystem using a PC; and

[0022]FIG. 9 is a view of one embodiment of a graphical user interfaceon webpad.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] A webpad and method for using the same are described. In thefollowing description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specificdetails are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding ofthe present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled inthe art that the present invention can be practiced without thesespecific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devicesare shown in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuring the presentinvention.

[0024] A set of definitions is provided below to clarify the presentinvention.

Definitions

[0025] Personal Digital Assistants (hereafter PDAs) are defined as thecategory of computers that are small enough to be comfortably held inone hand, and that contain software applications that are used forpersonal organization, productivity, and communication. The PDA categoryincludes handheld computers, including single-housing devices such asthe Palm Pilot, which have a two-piece clam-shell plastic housing withan integral display. PDAs of this variety include an LCD that allows theuser to write on it with a stylus, or otherwise control and manipulatethe software and stored content on the PDA. There are also hingeddesigns for PDAs that are similar in configuration, although muchsmaller than, portable notebook computers. In this configuration, onehousing contains the microprocessor, memory, batteries, and smallkeyboard, and the other housing contains an LCD.

[0026] A network is one or more computer devices of any type, such as apersonal computer (PC), network appliance, or PDA, connected together bya data transfer link. A PDA that has a communication link to theInternet is often referred to as a node. A node (point of interactionwith the Internet) on the network can potentially communicate, i.e.,send or receive data to any other node (electronic device) on thenetwork. Networks may be physically wired or they may be wireless.

[0027] The Internet is used interchangeably with the term web orworldwide web. Both of these are defined as the worldwide network ofPCs, servers, and other devices.

[0028] A CCD (charged coupled device) is a semiconductor technology usedto build light-sensitive electronic devices such as cameras. Each CCDchip consists of an array of light sensitive photocells that, inconjunction with a lens, can be used to capture both still shots andmoving pictures. CCD technology is well known in the field of digitalimage acquisition and will not be described in detail here for reasonsof brevity.

[0029] Broadband connection is defined as a communications network inwhich the frequency bandwidth can be divided and shared by multiplesimultaneous signals. A broadband connection to the Internet typicallyprovides minimum upstream and downstream data-rates of approximately200K or more bits per second. There are many different types ofbroadband connections including DSL, cable modems, and fixed and mobilewireless connections.

[0030] A Data Over Cable System Interface Specification (DOCSIS) modemis an industry standard type of cable modem that is used to providebroadband access to the Internet over a coaxial cable physical layerthat is also used for the delivery of cable TV signals (CATV). DOCSISmodems are well known in the telecommunications industry and will not bedescribed here in detail.

[0031] A Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) modem is also an industrystandard type of modem that is used to provide broadband access to theInternet, but over conventional copper phone lines (local loops). DSLmodems are well known in the telecommunications industry and will not bedescribed here in further detail.

[0032] The term gateway, used interchangeably with broadband gateway, isdefined as an integral modem and router, and may include hubfunctionality. The modem function is used to change voltage fluctuationson an input carrier line (a DSL line input or a cable TV input) intodigital data.

[0033] Routers are devices that connect one distinct network to anotherby passing only certain IP addresses that are targeted for specificnetworks. Hubs allow one network signal input to be split and thus sentto many devices.

[0034] Gateway storage peripheral is defined as an add-on storage devicewith processing power, an operating system, and a software applicationthat manages the downloading and storage of data. An example scenariofor the use of a gateway storage peripheral is a system where a user hasa DOCSIS modem and would like to add an always-on storage capability.The gateway storage peripheral is connected to the DOCSIS modem via aUSB port or an Ethernet port in the DOCSIS modem A gateway storageperipheral in combination with a DOCSIS modem or any type of broadbandmodem is considered a storage gateway system. A PC that is always lefton and connected to an always-on gateway with a DSL or broadband cableconnection is considered a storage gateway system.

[0035] The term “message” is defined as information that is sentdigitally from one computing device to another for various purposes. Theterm “content” is used to mean the information contained in digitalfiles or streams. For example, content may be entertainment or news, oraudio files in MP3 format. “Data” is used to mean information such asdigital schedule contents, responses from devices sent back through thesystem, or digital messages and email. “Content” and “data” aresometimes used interchangeably. “Client devices” are those devices thatare not fully functional without a host device such as a personalcomputer.

[0036] Local Area Network (LAN) is defined as a network structure thatincludes two or more devices that can communicate with other devicesutilizing a shared communication infrastructure, including wired networktechnologies, such as Ethernet, or wireless network technologies such asInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11b orHomeRF technology. Wireless LAN technology such as IEEE 802.11b andHomeRF are based on the unlicensed 2.4Ghz ISM (Industrial, Scientific,and Medical) frequency band. These networking technologies utilizeTransmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocols (TCP/IP) protocols.

[0037] A LAN typically constitutes a group of interconnected devicesthat share a common geographic location and are typically groupedtogether as a subnet. A local network, for example, would be a homenetwork where several computers and other smart devices would bedigitally connected for the purpose of transferring content and data,controlling each other, sharing programming, or presenting data andcontent to a user.

[0038] CODEC (Compression/Decompression algorithm) is a softwareapplication that is used to decode (uncompress) encoded (compressed)media files or streams. Most content is stored and sent in a compressedformat so that the content files are smaller and thus take up lessstorage space and use less bandwidth when being transferred via theInternet. The content is then decoded at the playback device. Forexample, MP3 audio files are encoded and must be decoded by amicroprocessor running the codec in order for the audio content to bepresented to the user in an analog format.

[0039] HTTP is Hyper-text transfer protocol, the protocol used by Webbrowsers and Web servers to transfer files, such as text and graphicfiles. Data-rate is defined as the data throughput of atelecommunications system or technology, and is measured in a quantityof bits per second, such as millions of bits per second (Mbps).

Overview of Operation

[0040] Referring now to FIG. 1, the fundamental operation of thewireless webpad 32 system involves LAN transmission of digital contentand services from a local server that is a PC in one embodiment. Contentand communication services are received via PC but can originate on theInternet 8, using the PC as a proxy server. Wireless webpad 32 receivesthe digital content and communications and processes it in various ways.

[0041] In one embodiment, webpad 32, shown in FIG. 2, is a PalmV PDA 36manufactured by Palm Computing. The PDA 36 is attached to a wireless LANadapter 40. The PC is also functionally connected via a USB connectionto a wireless radio frequency (RF) LAN access point 28, such thatdigital content from PC is transmitted to nodes on the LAN 48.

The Function of the PC and Broadband Connection in the System

[0042] In one embodiment, the function of PC in the wireless webpad 32system is to acquire, store, manage, and serve digital content andinteractive services to wireless webpad 32. Digital content is stored onPC hard disk drive 56. PC gains access to digital audio and videocontent several ways. In one embodiment PC is also connected to Internet8 via a broadband cable modem 16. Thus PC has access via contentservices to downloadable digital audio files such as MP3 formatted audiofiles, MPEG-2 and MPEG-4 video files, as well as digital audio and videostreams from Internet 8 servers.

[0043] In one embodiment, the user can also manually convert CD audiofiles into MP3 files, a process known as “ripping”. PC can also routeInternet 8 streams of content to webpad 32. In other embodiments, PC isconnected to Internet 8 through a dial-up modem connection to an ISP, orDigital Subscriber Line (DSL), or a fixed wireless broadband connection.

Discussion of Wireless LAN Adapter 40—Mechanical Description

[0044] As shown in FIG. 2, PDA 36 docks with wireless LAN adapter 40with a spring loaded mechanical attachment that includes a latch hook284. The latch hook 284 is shown in FIG. 3. In one example where the PDA36 is a Palm, and Palm Computing provides a reference design forconnecting to the PalmV with the use of a small slot on the bottom sideof the PalmV housing. PDA 36 is released from wireless LAN adapter 40 bypressing button 176. Electrical contacts on the rear end of PDA 36 makecontact with electrical contacts on wireless LAN adapter 40 in order toestablish a data communication link.

[0045]FIG. 3 shows wireless LAN adapter 40 without PDA 36 attached. Inone embodiment, the lower part of wireless LAN adapter 40 has the sameshape as the lower part of PDA 36, and includes the same electricalcontacts as PDA 36 electrical contacts in order to fit in to and utilizethe existing PDA 36 docking cradle. By placing PDA 36 attached towireless LAN adapter 40 into PDA 36 docking cradle, both the PDA 36battery and the battery 104 included in wireless LAN adapter 40 arealternatively charged.

[0046] Referring now to FIG. 4, an exploded view of wireless LAN adapter40 shows a typical two-piece plastic shell construction as well as othercomponents. Internal hardware components include a motherboard 156 thatcontains the electronic components that constitute the functionaldata-manipulating aspect of the device.

Electrical Description

[0047]FIG. 5 shows a block diagram of the electrical components inwireless LAN adapter 40. Motherboard 156 electrically connectscomponents including a microprocessor 115, dynamic memory (DRAM) 116,programmable (flash) memory 118, a power regulation and battery chargingsub-system 124, a digital signal processor (DSP), battery 104, a headsetjack 184, and a stereo audio out jack 128. A wireless LAN transceiver 44is functionally connected to motherboard 156.

[0048] In one embodiment, wireless LAN adapter 40 also includes adigital-to-analog converter (DAC) for converting the uncompresseddigital information into analog signals that are presented at the stereoaudio out jack 128. Microprocessor 115 in combination with DRAM memory116 executes instructions from the real time operating system 92 andcontrol firmware 96. In an alternative embodiment, wireless LAN adapter40 includes a charge-coupled device (CCD) chip and a lens, the functionof which will be explained later in this disclosure.

Description of Wireless LAN Transceivers (Card in LAN Adapter)

[0049] Wireless LAN transceivers 44 are capable of sending and receivingdata using radio frequencies via a wireless data transfer protocol.Technology for such a LAN is currently available and includes theSymphony wireless networking access point provided by Proxim, Inc.. LANsystems such as this are based on RF modulation centered on the 2.4 GHzfrequency band. Such LANs have a practical range of approximately 150feet and are capable of reaching most areas in an average sized housewere webpad 32 might be located.

[0050] In another embodiment, the wireless LAN access point 28 is a PCIcard that is located internal to the PC, with an external antenna 122.In another embodiment, the wireless LAN communication link is providedusing IEEE 802.11b protocols. In another embodiment wireless LANcommunication link is provided using Bluetooth protocols.

Wireless Webpad Software and Functionality

[0051] Wireless webpad 32 functions are the combined functions of PDA 36and wireless LAN adapter 40. FIG. 6 is a block diagram of the locationof various software functions in wireless webpad 32. PDA 36 is usedprimarily for its user-interface capabilities. Many functions requirethe computer processing power of wireless webpad 32. For example,microprocessor 115 in combination with DAC and CODEC 100 in wireless LANadapter 40 is capable of decoding digital audio files. Microprocessor115 in combination with DSP and a microphone input is capable ofdigitizing sound inputs.

Device Software—CODECs

[0052] In one embodiment, wireless LAN adapter 40 includes theFraunhofer CODEC in wireless LAN adapter 40, licensed for use by ThomsonElectronics for decoding the digital audio file that is streamed to itfrom PC. CODEC 100 is an executable file stored in memory, launched bycontrol firmware 96, executed by real time operating system 92 runningon wireless LAN adapter 40. Wireless LAN adapter 40 may store a multipleCODECs in memory 118 in wireless LAN adapter 40 for decoding variouslyformatted digital audio files that may be selected by the user. Forexample, the WindowsMedia CODEC, provided by Microsoft may be stored inmemory 118 at wireless webpad 32.

Software Module—System Control Application 64

[0053]FIG. 1 lists the software components of wireless webpad 32 systemthat are included at PC. FIG. 6 lists the software elements of wirelessLAN adapter 40 and PDA 36.

[0054] The system control application 64 is software executing on PCthat manages communication and streaming from PC to wireless webpad 32.System control application 64 includes a server module 76 that is a Javaapplication. System control application 64 also includes a databasemodule 68 that is written to or accessed by server module 76, and aseries of graphical user interface (GUI) modules, that provide userinterfaces for setting up content to be accessed by or streamed towireless webpad 32, as well as other devices on the LAN. One instance ofGUI module is a Windows application that runs on PC. Another instance ofGUI module is a native application for PDA 36 operating system

[0055] An example of webpad 32 GUI is the webpad playlist manager GUIapplication 276 that features a three-level nested list structure fororganizing digital audio content. The three levels are labeled aschannels, playlists, and tracks. Channels are lists of playlists, andplaylists are lists of tracks. Track is a GUI representation of alocally cached digital audio file or a digital audio stream fromInternet 8. Audio content services are also available through onlineservices accessed through a browser interface on webpad 32. The onlinedigital audio files associated with online playlist titles in the onlineplaylists are streamed to wireless webpad 32 via PC and wireless LANcommunication link. Server module 76 includes software that interfaceswith the protocols of each online audio service provider to allow onlineplaylists to be downloaded and transferred into database module 68.Thus, playlist structures and playlist titles created online using theweb-based content selection guide are available and can be interactedwith by the user with the webpad playlist manager GUI application 276running on wireless webpad 32.

Software Functions—Communication/Message Processing

[0056] The communication and control functions of the wireless webpad 32system will now be described. In one embodiment, a user may use wirelesswebpad 32 GUIs to control the function of wireless webpad 32 and otherclient devices connected to the system.

[0057] For example, the user makes selections on webpad playlist managerGUI application 276 using the stylus with the touch screen LCD 136.These interactions are processed by the microprocessor 115 and operatingsystem in PDA 36, and messages are sent to control firmware 96 inwireless LAN adapter 40 via the serial port interface. These messagesare then converted into XML-based messages and sent via HTTP requests tosystem control application 64 on PC via wireless LAN. These messages areinterpreted by server module 76 running on PC and specific actions areinitiated. Applications enabled by the wireless webpad 32 system arediscussed below.

System Function—Local Browsing

[0058] System control application 64 includes server module 76 thatoperates as a server for webpad 32. A database of information can bemaintained on PC such as yellow pages directories, white pagesdirectories, TV Guide, and the like. Database module 68 stores thelocations of the local content files. Because of the speed of LAN,access to this information is very fast. In this embodiment PDA 36 GUIis a browser that accesses the server with HTTP requests.

System Function—Internet 8 Browsing

[0059] Server module 76 also acts as a router and network addresstranslator, allowing the user to use the browser application on the PDA36 to access web pages on Internet 8. The browser application on PDA 36can receive world wide web URLs entered by the user, and server module76 will route these requests through to the wide area connection, suchas a broadband Internet 8 connection. The responses back from Internet 8are routed through to webpad 32.

System Function—Streaming Audio

[0060] An aspect of control firmware 96 on wireless LAN adapter 40 incombination with webpad playlist manager GUI application 276 on the PDA36 provides the ability to initiate and control a real-time digitalaudio or video stream from server module 76 on PC. Webpad playlistmanager GUI application 276 on PDA 36 also provides the standardcontrols for starting, stopping, pausing, progressing to the next track,and the like. These controls are GUI elements on the touch screen LCD136. The user activates the control GUI elements with the stylus.

[0061] The interaction of control firmware 96 with server module 76provides a buffer management function that controls the flow of portionsof the digital audio file from PC into a local DRAM memory of wirelesswebpad 32. The buffer management function insures that the local DRAMmemory buffer is filled as the contents of DRAM are decoded bymicroprocessor 115 executing CODEC 100. DAC converts the decoded digitalaudio into analog signals that are presented at the head phone jack 128on wireless LAN adapter 40. The user listens to the audio stream using astereo headset plugged into earphone jack 128.

System Function—Real-time Interactive TV Synchronization Mode

[0062] There are two embodiments for providing interactivity betweenwebpad 32 and a TV. In one embodiment, the system control application 64is run on PC. In another embodiment, the system control application 64can run on a set-top box that includes a digital cable converter and aDOCSIS cable modem, as well as a wireless LAN access point.

[0063] In the set-top box scenario, as shown in FIG. 7, system controlapplication 64 receives information as to the current cable channel thatthe digital cable converter is tuned to. The set-top box makes thecurrently playing content channel available to system controlapplication 64. System control application 64 sends a message containingthe current channel via Internet 8 connection integral to the set-topbox to an online lookup application.

[0064] In one embodiment, the online lookup application in combinationwith an online programming guide database, a function for obtaining thecurrent time and date, and location information regarding the user, suchas zip code, obtains a text description of the currently playingcontent. The online programming guide database is a searchable databaseof the broadcast programming schedule for all broadcast mediums, such asterrestrial, cable, and satellite broadcasts. The user has an onlineaccount with the service/set-top box provider so that zip codeinformation is accessible.

[0065] In an alternate embodiment, an Internet 8 search function is usedto gather ancillary content links, defined as links to webpages thatrelate in subject matter to the text descriptors of the currentlyplaying content. These ancillary content links are automatically sent towebpad 32 when TV synchronization mode is activated on webpad 32. Theresult is that while watching a TV program such as movie or anadvertisement, related links are immediately sent to webpad 32.

[0066] Using the above example of ancillary content sent automaticallyto the webpad 32, activation by the user of a GUI tag button displayedon webpad 32 LCD 136 that is associated with the ancillary contentcurrently displayed on LCD 136, results in the transmission of a messageback through LAN informing system control application 64 that tag buttonwas activated. Server module 76 then compiles and transmits tag messageto a tag storage and processing server. The information in tag messageis associated with the currently playing content and may include but isnot limited to: metadata or meta-tags (ID3 data) included in the file orstream (characters or images); the file name if content is a file; theURL or IP address of the stream if content is a stream; time; date; anduser identifier. Other ancillary content is then aggregated a web pagethat is accessible to the user of the system

[0067] In another embodiment, the system control application isoperating on a PC. There are two methods for providing the currentchannel data to the system control application for the purpose ofsending ancillary content links to webpad 32.

[0068] Referring now to FIG. 8, webpad 32 includes an IR transceiversubsystem and is used to control the broadcast media channel on the TV.This is accomplished by the use of control firmware, a TV control GUI,and the associated IR pulse codes for the given TV.

[0069]FIG. 9 shows a broadcast media system setup webpage that isaccessed via webpad 32, that enables the user to provide informationregarding the model of cable-ready TV that is being used, as well thebroadcast system that is being used, and the user's zip code. The systemcontrol application uses the model number of the cableready TV to obtainthe pulse code for changing the cable channels on the TV from a pulsecode database on the Internet 8. The IR pulse codes for controlling thecable-ready TV are automatically downloaded into webpad 32. Thebroadcast system and zip code are used by the online lookup applicationto derive the programming schedule for the system.

[0070] Referring again to FIG. 8, when the user uses webpad 32 to changea channel, control firmware that is controlling the TV control GUI sendsa message to PC with the current channel. In the initial setup of the TVcontrol GUI, the actual channel number must be input by the user. Systemcontrol application on TV in turn sends this information to the onlinelookup application, which operates as described above. The ancillarycontent webpage link is sent back through the system until it is pushedonto webpad 32 and automatically refreshed so that the user hasimmediate access to the ancillary content.

[0071] In an alternative embodiment, the other method in which thesystem control application can access the current channel data to besent to the online lookup application is for the user to input the cablechannel or actual name of the TV program into a webpage GUI on webpad32.

[0072] There are many applications that can operate using the elementsand sequence of events described above. For example, users can engage inreal-time interactive games, such as playing along with game showprograms. In the case of interactive games, rather than ancillarycontent being sent back to webpad, pages are sent to webpad that aresynchronized with a game that is being played. The pages containquestions that are the same questions as those being presented on thegame show program Webpad 32 users can answer the questions using thewebpad 32 user interface and send the answers back to the game showprogram synchronizing server.

[0073] Another embodiment of the real-time interactive TV mode is theability to bid on TV auctions. In this embodiment, an auction can bebroadcast via terrestrial cable or TV and users can respond using webpad32. The items to be bid upon are sent formatted as webpages to webpad32. Using a GUI, users input amounts to be paid into the GUI and triggerthe response to be sent back to the auction server on Internet 8.

[0074] In another embodiment, the interaction involves placing bets onvarious gambling activities including card games, horse races, andsporting events. Users use a GUI in a browser on webpad 32 to inputamounts of bets. These bets are processed by a bet-processing server andthe outcome of the game is sent back to webpad 32.

[0075] In another embodiment, the interaction involves purchasingproducts or services by the use of a GUI on a webpage on webpad 32.Webpages that are synchronized to the broadcast content are presentedthat include links or buttons for purchasing the product. If the useractivates the “purchase” button, a message is sent back through thesystem to an e-commerce server and the user is notified that thepurchase has been made.

System Function—Voice-over-IP Mode

[0076] In one embodiment, wireless LAN adapter 40 includes DSP fordigitizing audio inputs. A headset, which is a combination earphone andmicrophone, is plugged into headset jack 184 on wireless LAN adapter 40.When a voice-over-IP call is initiated using a GUI on PDA 36, DSP inconcert with microprocessor 115 and control firmware 96 converts theanalog voice signal into digital packets in real time and sends thisinformation via LAN communication link to server module 76 on PC. Servermodule 76 on PC routes these packets to the appropriate voice-over-IPserver on Internet 8. It is assumed that Internet 8 voice-over-IPservice is used. FIG. 3 shows that wireless LAN adapter 40 includes ananswer button 288 that is connected electrically to microprocessor 115and allows convenient one-button activation when answering voice-over-IPcalls. Volume up and volume down buttons are also included in wirelessLAN adapter 40.

System Function—Voice-Recording Mode

[0077] In one embodiment, DSP and microprocessor 115 constitutes a audiodigitizing subsystem that can be used to digitize voice messages. A GUIon PDA 36 allows the user to initiate and stop a recording interval,similar to controls on many audio recording devices. As the recording istaking place, the audio signal is digitized and sent in large blocksthat are re-constructed by system control application 64. The resultingaudio files are stored on PC, or can be sent other users as emailattachments. The GUI on PDA 36 also includes an address book forselection the recipient of the audio message.

System Function—Image Data Transfer

[0078] Image data transfer occurs in two modes: still camera functionand video camera function. In one embodiment, the wireless LAN adapter40 includes a CCD chip and lens subsystem. The output of a CCD ship is asingle frame or a sequence of frames that are an array of pixels. Instill image transfer mode, one digital frame is sent to PC via wirelessLAN communication link 48 and stored in database 68. This digital imagecan be saved in a variety of standard image formats such as JPEG or TIFFformats. A GUI on PDA 36 provides for activation of the still imagecamera function.

[0079] In video camera mode, digital video frames are captured by theCCD subsystem and encoded in MPEG-4 format, and sent in real time viathe wireless LAN communication link, to system control application 64. Avideo compilation software application that is an element of systemcontrol application 64 appends these frames into an MPEG-4 video file.In an alternative embodiment, the MPEG-4 stream can be routed by theserver module 76 to a server on the Internet 8 where the stream can beaccessed by a third party. A GUI on PDA 36 allows for the starting andstopping of streaming video from wireless webpad 32.

Network Device Control

[0080] In one embodiment, by connecting a network module to variousother electronic devices, these devices become nodes in the LAN and canbe manipulated by software on PC as well as with GUI controlapplications running on webpad 32. Examples of other networked devicescould include, but are not limited to, a television, stereo, oven, HVACsystem, lights, video camera security systems, video baby monitors, anddoor locks, among others. LAN adapters connected to electronic devicesdiffer according to the functions of each device but include a wired orwireless transceiver and other necessary control circuitry.

[0081] PC with wireless LAN access point 28 and system controlapplication 64 is the fixed central controller for all these devices andcan be used to perform various control functions such as on/off control.Webpad 32 is used as the portable central controller for these networkeddevices. In an example scenario, a user can use webpad 32 in concertwith a wireless LAN video module that is pointed to an infant located ina house.

[0082] As another example, webpad 32 can be used to control a digitalaudio converter, a device that is a node on the LAN and is able toreceive digital audio streams from PC, decode and convert the streaminto analog signals that are plugged into any existing stereo system.Webpad playlist manager GUI application 276 that is used to manageplaylists and control streams into webpad 32 can be used to controlaudio content delivered to the digital audio converter. A GUI element inwebpad playlist manager GUI application 276 allows the user to selecteither digital audio converter or webpad 32 as the target device for theaudio stream.

[0083] In one embodiment, a further use of webpad 32 as a devicecontroller entails using the built in infrared (IR) capabilities on PDA36s. Webpad 32 can use its IR transmitter to communicate directly withelectronic devices with IR receivers such as televisions and stereos, orwith an IR enabled amplifier module attached. The specific IRconfigurations for individual electronic devices can be downloaded fromInternet 8 by PC, stored on PC and then sent to webpad 32.

[0084] In an example scenario, webpad 32 is used to control thetelevision. The user requests to use PDA 36 as a TV remote controller bymaking a selection to his effect on a GUI on webpad 32. The makesselections on the AV control GUI on webpad 32 both to lower the volumeof the TV and to watch a specific program being broadcast. Previously,webpad 32 downloaded the relevant IR configurations for the TV fromInternet 8 through PC. Webpad 32 then transmits the IR data to the TV.

Alternative Embodiments

[0085] The wireless LAN adapter has several permutations that have notyet been explicitly mentioned but are implied: the module can include anexternal antenna 122; the audio in/out jack and/or the stereo out jackand its associated function can be regarded as optional on the device;the CCD and its associated functions can be viewed as optional on thedevice; the IR capabilities and its associated functions on the PDA canbe viewed as optional on the PDA; the IR capabilities and its associatedfunctions can be incorporated directly into the wireless LAN adapter;the CCD and its related functions can be added to the system byattaching a CCD camera plug-on adapter module directly to the PDA (PDAssuch as the Palm Pilot, manufactured by Palm Computing, and the Visor,manufactured by Handspring, offer optional CCD camera plug-on adapters);the wireless LAN adapter may include a conventional power jack and berecharged through a charging module unassociated with the PDA. Otherpermutations and embodiments exist that are not explicitly listed above.

Embodiment with PDA with Decoding Capability

[0086] PDAs such as the ipaq include microprocessors that are capable ofdecoding digital audio and video streams, as well the capability tostore a quantity of digital content files in internal memory. In anotherembodiment, an iPaq includes a CompactFlash wireless LAN card and anintegrated control and GUI software application that provides thecapability of communicating with the system control application as wellas all of the functions of the webpad described above.

Embodiment with Gateway Node

[0087] For example, another method for providing an Internet connectionto the webpad is to include a gateway node, a device that is a wirelessLAN to ethernet converter. The gateway node system is used when there isan existing Internet connection such as a DSL connection or a cablemodem connection. An example system would include a broadband gatewaythat is also a hub, such as the Netopia 3100 router, made by Netopia.The Netopia router performs routing and hub functions in addition toother functions such as being a DHCP server (it dynamically serves upinternet protocol addresses). The Netopia router has several physicalconnection ports. In one port it receives a connection to the Internet,such as a DSL connection. There are several other physical ports thatare Ethernet ports. The gateway node in this case would convert Ethernetprotocol to the wireless LAN protocol, and broadcast them The gatewaynode would alternatively receive RF signals from the webpad module andconvert them to Ethernet protocol messages. By using a gateway node, thewebpad assembly is capable of communicating with the Internet withoutthe use of a home PC.

[0088] Depending on which PDA is used and how much computing power isavailable, various functions described above may be executed by theprocessor located in the wireless LAN adapter, or they may be executedby the processor in the PDA. Or both processors may share the computingload.

Alternative Embodimnent—Wireless Connection to Streaming Player withStorage

[0089] In another embodiment, wireless LAN adapter includes a largequantity of battery-backed up static RAM, or SRAM that allows the webpadto store a quantity of data. For example, the user selects a number ofdigital audio tracks on the PC using the GUI on the wireless webpad thatare to be downloaded and stored on the webpad. The battery backed-upSRAM stores the files so the user can access and listen to the digitalaudio files away from the wireless LAN communication link.

[0090] In another embodiment, the wireless LAN adapter may include acard slot for accepting CompactFlash memory cards. In this case, thedigital audio files transferred from the PC to the wireless webpad arestored in CompactFlash memory, and the user may listen to the audiofiles beyond the vicinity of the LAN communication link.

[0091] A webpad and method for using the same have been described.Although the present invention is described herein with reference tospecific embodiments, many modifications and variations therein willreadily occur to those with ordinary skill in the art. Accordingly, allsuch variations and modifications are included within the intended scopeof the present invention as defined by the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method comprising: streaming data from acomputer system to a personal digital assistant that is part of a webpadhaving a communication adapter module; receiving the streamed data usingthe adapter module via wireless transmission; and playing the streameddata on the webpad while simultaneously receiving the streamed data. 2.The method of claim 1 wherein the streamed data is ancillary datarelating to primary data being played on an audiovisual device.
 3. Themethod of claim 1 further comprising: obtaining the data to be streamedfrom a location using an application on the computer system.
 4. Themethod of claim 3 wherein the application is a system controlapplication on the computer system.
 5. The method of claim 4 wherein thelocation is Internet.
 6. The method of claim 4 wherein the location is adatabase on the computer system.
 7. The method of claim 1 furthercomprising: inputting information using a user interface on the webpadto provide instructions on what data is to be streamed from the computersystem.
 8. The method of claim 1 further comprising: manipulatingelectronic devices using the webpad via wireless transmission.
 9. Themethod of claim 8 wherein the electronic devices include at least one ofa television, stereo, oven, lights, video camera security devices, videobaby monitors, and door lock devices.
 10. A method of transferringancillary data to a webpad comprising: determining information aboutprimary content being played on a television using a set top box;obtaining the ancillary data relating to the primary content based onthe information; and automatically sending the ancillary data to thewebpad for access therefrom as the primary content is being played onthe television.
 11. The method of claim 10 wherein determininginformation about primary content being played on a television using aset top box includes determining what channel the television is playingusing a first application on the set top box.
 12. The method of claim 11wherein obtaining ancillary data relating to the primary content basedon the information includes looking up the ancillary data using a secondapplication on the set top box.
 13. The method of claim 12 wherein thefirst application is a system control application.
 14. The method ofclaim 13 wherein the second application is an online lookup application.15. The method of claim 10 wherein the ancillary data includes a textdescription of the primary content being played on the television. 16.The method of claim 10 wherein the ancillary data is additional datarelating to the primary content being played on the television.
 17. Themethod of claim 10 further comprising displaying the ancillary data on adisplay on the webpad.
 18. A method of transferring ancillary data to awebpad comprising: determining information about primary content beingplayed on an audiovisual device using a computer system; obtaining theancillary data relating to the primary content based on the information;and automatically sending the ancillary data to the webpad for accesstherefrom as the primary content is being played on the audiovisualdevice.
 19. The method of claim 18 wherein determining information aboutprimary content being played on the audiovisual device furthercomprises: inputting the information on a user interface on the webpad;and sending the information to a first application on the computersystem.
 20. The method of claim 19 wherein obtaining the ancillary datarelating to the primary content based on the information includeslooking up the ancillary data using a second application on the computersystem.
 21. The method of claim 20 wherein the first application is asystem control application.
 22. The method of claim 21 wherein thesecond application is an online lookup application.
 23. The method ofclaim 18 wherein the ancillary data includes a text description of theprimary content being played on the audiovisual device.
 24. The methodof claim 18 wherein the ancillary data is additional data relating tothe primary content being played on the audiovisual device.
 25. Themethod of claim 18 wherein the audiovisual device is a television. 26.The method of claim 18 wherein the audiovisual device is an audioconverter device.
 27. The method of claim 18 wherein the audiovisualdevice is a stereo.
 28. A system comprising: a local area network (LAN);a webpad coupled to the LAN and including an adapter module attached toa personal digital assistant; and a computer system coupled to the LAN,wherein the computers system streams data to the adapter module via awireless transmission.
 29. The system of claim 28 wherein the computersystem includes a system control application to determine informationabout primary content being played on an audiovisual device.
 30. Thesystem of claim 29 wherein the computer system includes an online lookupapplication to obtain ancillary data relating to the primary contentbased on the information about the primary content.
 31. The system ofclaim 30 wherein the ancillary data includes a text description of theprimary content being played on the audiovisual device.
 32. The systemof claim 30 wherein the ancillary data is additional data relating tothe primary content being played on the audiovisual device.
 33. Thesystem of claim 28 wherein the adapter module includes a wirelesstransceiver.